Austin Mahone Wins All the Awards, Gives Us the Exclusive Scoop on How It Feels to Be Your Favorite

Spoiler: It feels really, really good.

In August, Austin Mahone took home the much-sought-after Artist To Watch honor at the VMAs, putting him on the map in a huge way. And then last weekend? He snagged the equally-coveted Artist on the Rise trophy at the EMAs, beating out other fan favorites like Ariana Grande, Cody Simpson, and Lorde. "To be nominated alongside such awesome people was crazy," he told us after the show. "I just am so thankful. It feels crazy that I won, and that I won two awards!" Thing is, this is just the beginning.

In addition to winning the accolade, he also officially released his new hotly-anticipated single, "Banga Banga," and performed (on live TV, no less!) for the first time ever. Next up, he'll be unveiling his sure-to-be-rad music video for the song, dropping his debut album, and, if his recent track record is any indication, possibly taking home the award for "Favorite Breakout Artist" at the People's Choice Awards. Up against Ariana Grande and Lorde (again!), plus Icona Pop and Imagine Dragons, Austin has some stiff competition but the guy's fared well so far, so he might want to make a little room on his trophy shelf, just in case.

For now, though, he's just psyched about his shiny new EMA prize. "I'm so excited that I won. And to be given the chance to perform my new single for everyone was the best. I thank my Mahomies and family and friends for supporting me—I couldn't do any of this without them."

If you want to continue supporting Austin so he'll thank you in his next acceptance speech, tune in for the People's Choice on January 8th. Oh, and be sure to watch his "Banga Banga" performance, in case you missed it!